Jessica walked back to the Plaza, tried on her dress and shoes again, and after parading her best catwalk imitation in front of the mirror for a half hour, she looked at the time. It was just after five. She removed her dress, put her earlier outfit back on, and went down to the lobby.

What direction is Times Square,? she asked a uniformed footman on the front steps of the hotel.

Would you like me to call a taxi Miss,? the man offered politely.

It's not too far is it,? Jessica wondered.

No, perhaps twenty minutes away. If you go right to seventh avenue, just keep walking until you see all the lights.

Thanks, Jessica called out, as she went further up the road. After about twenty minutes, she reached the famous intersection, and trekked the area, enjoying the neon lights, brilliant billboards and the exhilaration of being among the thousands of enthusiastic tourists like herself.

She couldn't help but look forlornly at all the happy couples around her, and realized that she couldn't even remember the last time she felt thrilled about being in a relationship. She had always thrived on newness and freshness, and at this point, her life had none.

That's why I needed this, Jessica contemplated as she stared at the giant screens and flashing advertisements above her.

I needed this trip. I needed some excitement! And tomorrow…tomorrow, I'll make a brand new start with Elizabeth. She will be my sister again! Tomorrow's going to be one of the most important days of her life. And I'm going to be there, sharing it with her!…..


Elizabeth gazed at the setting sun, marveling at the clouds that were bathed in vibrant pink and orange hues. The gentle waves crashed on the craggy rocks in front of her, and she smiled as she watched Enid taking a stronger hold on Alex, as the small child attempted to run ahead towards the water. After thanking Mrs Wexford for her generous hospitality, Elizabeth, her mother, grandmother, Eleanor, Enid, Cara, and their children left Greenwich earlier than planned, around four that afternoon.

Eleanor had her driver Johnson rent a large van, that could fit all the women and their wedding finery. They were driven eastward and to the shoreline dock, where they boarded the small ferry that took them to the venue for the ceremony. They had been on the island for over an hour now, and Elizabeth couldn't imagine a more impeccable setting for her wedding day. The temperature had dropped to the fifties, and tomorrow promised to be a similar day, cool and sunny with highs in the mid sixties.

Cara was in the house with Grandma Wakefield attending to her baby, and Eleanor was engrossed with watching her taped soap operas on one of the home's VCR's. Elizabeth heard her name, and on turning around, saw her mother and Skye, standing among a sea of Michaelmas daisies that were planted in the island's garden maze . It was time for dinner, and they had come outside to stroll the grounds and bring Elizabeth and Enid in.

Alice and Skye seemed to be getting along better…. for now anyway. Elizabeth attributed their peaceful interactions to the serenity of their surroundings. Away from the mainland, things just seemed a lot more placid, more tranquil. She moved in their direction, and almost felt like skipping over the grass to meet them, so blissful was her spirit. Tomorrow was going to be one of the most important days of her life, and she was thrilled that everyone she loved would be there to share it with her…..


The next morning, Jessica yawned and stretched in her pillow soft bed, and threw off the superior quality sateen sheets. She looked at the clock on the marble mantle and saw that it was already almost ten forty five. Despite the bed's comfort, she had spent another sleepless night, anxious about the upcoming day, hoping that all her scheming would come to a satisfying fruition. Her plan was to leave the hotel at twelve.

This would give her two hours to get to Norwalk. She had called room service yesterday evening and had them make an appointment at the hotel's beauty parlor for eleven that morning. Jessica usually didn't care about being late, as far as she was concerned, nothing important ever happened until she had arrived, but today…..today was an exception. She had to make it on time! She hightailed it into the shower, and within ten minutes, put on her clothes and went down to the salon...


Elizabeth had woken up that morning, and looked out the window of the red roofed Tudor style mansion where she had spent the night. She took a long reflective bath in her en suite claw foot tub, washed off the fragrant vanilla bubbles, and went back into the bedroom, where she blotted her long wet hair.

She sat at the dresser and stared out at the flurry of activity outside. She couldn't have asked for a more gorgeous day, the air was crisp and cool with bright sunshine, the cirrus white clouds prettied the azure blue sky without being intrusive. Classical music wafted in from outside, providing an exceptional ambiance to the fine qualities of the exclusive location.

Uniformed workers walked up and down the property, all led by the caretaker, making sure that everything was perfect. She watched as the rows of seats were placed under the massive ivy draped wrought iron pergola, the leaves serving as shade under the strong rays of the morning sun.

Elizabeth applied a translucent opal color to her toenails and looked outside, her jaw dropping at the size of the vessel that was pulling up to the small dock. It was a deep navy blue that was reminiscent of the steamers from the gilded age.

Would you look at that, she called to Enid and Cara who were also busy applying polish to their nails.

Wow. You're kidding,! Cara raved as she watched the boat coming to a slow stop. It's almost as big as a cruise ship! We're cruising and spending the night on that? I've died and gone to heaven… and it's not even my wedding!

I'm still trying to get over the swans, Enid said, referring to the birds that Skye rented especially for the day. She waved her hand up and down and blew on her nails.

Well, I just hope they don't come after me, Elizabeth started on her fingers, and looked out at the pair of graceful birds that had been brought in by their breeder early this morning.

Their seven fluffy cygnets, looked to be turning white like their parents after recently shedding their grey down.

I've actually heard of that happening. Swans attacking the bride on her wedding day. I'm nervous enough as it is. Look at all those people!

Seven cygnets, Enid remarked, her green eyes twinkling. Is that supposed to be an indication of how many children you're supposed to have?

I'd be happy with just one, Elizabeth replied solemnly, willing herself to not think about her lost child.

Oh Liz, before I forget, Cara said suddenly, opening her small purse. She brought out a small coin and handed it to Elizabeth.

Elizabeth raised her brow. Queen Victoria? A….sixpence?

Yes, Cara laughed. You're supposed to wear it in your shoe. You know, old…..new…..borrowed…blue….silver sixpence in your shoe... This one is from the late 1800s, so it's real silver. It supposed to bring you financial prosperity.

I don't think they'll have a problem with that, Enid said laughing. I guess you're all covered then, she continued. Blue silk garters, old dress, what's new though?

My underwear, and silk stockings. Elizabeth giggled. Definitely new.

And borrowed? Enid asked. Your dress maybe?

Elizabeth pulled a small box from the dresser and handed it to Enid. Grandma is letting me wear them, she said, indicating the small pearl and diamond earrings. These I definitely have to give back. Abigail told me I can keep the dress, so it can't count for borrowed. She also let me have these, Elizabeth stated, pointing to a pair of ivory silk fingerless mitts. They're about as old as the dress.

They're beautiful, Cara said, examining the delicate weave of the fabric...

Elizabeth looked through the glass again, noting the outlandish outfits on some of her guests. Several people had already began to arrive, and the servers were keeping them happy with champagne and hor d'oeuvres. She was uneasy at the thought of walking outside and down the aisle in front of all of them. She had originally invited her old roommates, her family, and a few people from work. Nicholas had done the same, keeping the attendees to a moderate number. But Skye had a different idea, the evidence of which were strolling out on the lawn, ready to celebrate the nuptials.

Skye told me the governor's coming, Cara said, as she ironed Nathan's tuxedo. She finished the small suit and started working on Karen's yellow dress.

As if she heard her name, an already dressed Skye walked in and informed Elizabeth that Jean Claude was finished with her mother and would be coming to her next.

Oh, and Governor Wilson and his wife just arrived, she said casually.

The governor? Of Connecticut? Elizabeth was flabbergasted. I don't even know who he is.

Alice walked in with her hair freshly done, and Elizabeth admired her mother's wavy bun.

Mom, you look beautiful. You too Skye. In fact, you all look wonderful, she said, looking around at the stylist's work. He had arrived early that morning with his assistant Rachel, and proceeded to style their hair, deciding to leave Elizabeth for last. Rachel was given the task of applying everyone's makeup.

I love how dry the air is today, Enid commented. Any hint of moisture, and my hair would frizz!

Well it looks lovely, Skye replied. I've always wished for natural curls.

Where's Grandma? Elizabeth queried, looking at her mother.

She's downstairs with the babies, Cara answered.

Eleanor's maid Monica knocked on the door and informed them that the groom had arrived, and Elizabeth's heart sprang to life.

If Nicholas is here, that means Steven is here, Cara said, holding up her son's little tuxedo. Which means it's time to dress Nathan.

I'll go with you, Enid told her. I'll feed Alex first and then put her dress on.

Cara and Enid left the room to tend to their children, and Jean Claude walked in with his leather bag, full of grooming tools. Alice had originally planned to do her own hair, in an attempt to protest Skye's decision to bring in Jean Claude, but she changed her mind once she saw him work his magic on the other women.

Zees is all natural oui,? Jean Claude said, running his hands through Elizabeth's still damp locks. What a beautiful color. Of course, she gets zat from you Madame, he said flatteringly at Alice.

She does, Alice agreed with a smile.

Now, up or down? We can find a way to fit the tiara in and around it, either way.

Up, definitely up, Elizabeth insisted. It goes better with my dress. Maybe I'll wear it down at the reception.

Eleanor called Skye downstairs to greet some guests, and Alice watched admiringly as Jean Claude dried and created a waterfall braid around the crown of Elizabeth's head, with delightful flaxen ringlets hanging down her upper back. He then placed the tiara within the strands, securing it with blonde hairpins and brought the entire length upwards, creating a remarkable golden arrangement on her head.

I can usually smell zee bleach blondes from a mile away, he said in his affected French accent. But zees…..It's like spun gold.

It's beautiful Elizabeth, Alice remarked, handing her daughter the mirror.

Thank you Jean Claude, Elizabeth told the stylist, as Rachel opened up her palate of colors. You're not really from France are you?

Non, Jean Claude laughed. I'm from a small town in North Dakota, he said in his natural voice. But I did live in France for a few years. It's a lot more brag worthy, to have you hair done by a Jean Claude Rainier than a John Reynolds.

Well, I'll definitely brag, if anyone asks. You did a wonderful job, Elizabeth said graciously as Rachel used a warm wet towelette on her face.

Your skin is flawless, Rachel told Elizabeth as she wiped her skin dry.

I can't even see your pores. It's like a smooth ivory with a hint of apple. You don't even need any foundation. It's pale, but, that's becoming pretty popular. Have you ever tanned? Skye told me you grew up in California.

I used to be pretty tanned. But, I don't ever want to be tanned again. In fact, Elizabeth joked, I have a gallon of the strongest sunblock to take on my honeymoon.

We'll go easy with the colors, Rachel said. Nothing to overpower you.

I agree, Elizabeth said, as she watched her mother handling her dress that was laid on her bed. I don't want to look like a Vegas showgirl. She smiled dreamily. I want Nicholas to recognize me when I walk down the aisle. We haven't really seen each other for a week.

We'll go subtle with the eye makeup, Rachel promised. Less is more with a vintage dress. Women didn't even wear makeup back then, unless they were actresses or…..well…..

Worked somewhere like on forty second street? Elizabeth answered, referring to the notorious and nefarious activities that took place there.

Yes, Rachel nodded knowingly, looking over at the dress. I can't believe how pretty the lace is.

I picked it out myself, Alice declared proudly. A mother always knows best!...

Within twenty minutes, the artist finished her work, leaving Elizabeth and her mother more than satisfied with the results.

Very nice. Elizabeth remarked, looking at the soft pink hue of her lips. I never like to feel like my lips are bleeding red with lipstick, and you managed to create a light, understated tone...


Jessica went to the receptionist, who directed her over to the hair section, where Pablo the stylist was waiting for her.

Hmmmm, he said, as Jessica sat in the chair. You just washed it…..Jessica?

Yes, just a few minutes ago, she replied..

Hmmmmm. He moved from side to side, picking up damp locks of Jessica's hair and letting them fall through his fingers.

And what would you like today Jessica?

Just make it look nice. I'm going to a wedding.

I see, Mmmhmm, Mmmhhh. Down or up,? Pablo queried.

Down, definitely down, Jessica replied.

I'll wash it again, with some clarifying shampoo, and then I think we'll give you some pretty curls.

He put a protective gown over her clothing and led her to the sink. Ten minutes later, Pablo switched on his blow dryer, and talked loudly so Jessica could hear him over the noise.

I have so many women in here, just trying to get this color. This is fabulous. I can tell it's real. You've never dyed it?

I dyed it black once, Jessica replied, as she remembered the time she didn't want to be a twin and started calling herself Jessa Fields. And I went right back. Blondes do have more fun, she giggled.

Well, it's lovely, and full too, Pablo observed. Naturally wavy…..

Within twenty minutes, he created some fat ringlets with his barrel iron, and Jessica stared at herself, satisfied with the results as he swooped the pretty curls to one side with a rhinestone barrette.

I love it,! Jessica gushed as she handed Pablo the mirror he had supplied her with to look at the back of her head. She removed her supplied gown, pulled out some money and placed it in his tip jar.

You did a great job! I have to run over to makeup. Thanks!

Jessica walked over to the makeup section and met Sarah, one of the employees, who looked to be just a little older than her. She sat at Sarah's chair and let the young woman start her work. She first used a cotton bud soaked with toner to freshen Jessica's face.

Nice tan, the makeup artist said.

I'm from California, Jessica said, as she used the brush on her eyelids.

Are you going to a special occasion?

It's my sister's wedding. I want to really stand out. Make everyone take notice.

Your hair is beautiful. Pablo did an excellent job. The color is natural isn't it? I can tell by your eyelashes and brows.

Yes it is, Jessica replied.

Hmmm, Sarah said, examining Jessica's face. You don't even need a concealer. Your skin is so smooth. It's perfect. We'll add some moisturizer when I'm done. Just to prevent you from drying out. The fall air has a lot less moisture than summer. Perhaps we'll go with just a little blush. What color is your dress?

Blue green, like my eyes, but much deeper, Jessica responded.

Hmmm, sort of like an aqua then,? Sara looked her over carefully. Lets see…, we'll go with a very pale turquoise, lighter than the dress, but enough to capture attention. And your eyelashes are pretty long. I have this great new mascara that's supposed to help them grow even longer. It's almost black, and will go well with your tanned skin. It really makes your eyes pop out. We ordered it straight from Italy. Would you like to take some home with you?

Sure, Jessica said, just add it to my tab.

Twenty dollars was a little steep for just mascara, but longer eyelashes were always a good investment.

Jessica closed her eyes as Sarah worked on her eyelashes and lids. After fifteen minutes of sitting in the chair, Sarah was finished with her entire face. Jessica looked in the mirror and loved the outcome. She pursed her lips that were painted a bright red, just as she liked them.

She looked very sexy, but sophisticated at the same time. Jessica thanked Sarah, left her a tip, and went to pay at the register. She picked up the same shade of lipstick, and a bottle of deep red nail lacquer, added them to her purchase, then walked out of the salon to the elevator.

One hundred and seventy dollars! Well, no price is too much for an occasion like this! She looked at the clock again. It was already twelve fifteen! She examined her fingers.

I'll just have to do my nails on the way. Her belly was groaning with the agony of hunger, but she ignored it.

I'll just eat at the wedding. There's sure to be lots of food there. Liz might be mad at first, but she'll never let me starve!

She hastily put on her dress and shoes, grabbed her black silk shawl, and put her makeup, polish, and new jewelry in her fine Argentinian leather purse. She spritzed on her perfume, made sure she had enough cash, and ran out the door. She walked out of the elevator and to the lobby, and didn't even think about making a graceful exit out the front door. She was too concerned with the time.

One of the doormen hailed her a taxi, and she got in and gave the driver instructions...